- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Belfast to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 18
Cheapest price on Oct 18
$72
Average ticket price on Oct 18
$72
Fastest journey on Oct 18
10 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 18
10 h 40 m
Buses on Oct 18
2
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.
Fast buses
On Sun, Oct 18, we found 2 buses from Belfast to Edinburgh, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Oct 18 the direct buses cover the 231 km distance in an average of 10 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 40 m .
On Sun, Oct 18 the slowest buses will take 10 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
10:20 AM10h40Belfast9:00 PMEdinburgh$721One-way0 transfers- 9:20 AM10h40Belfast8:00 PMEdinburgh$731One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 AM10h40Belfast9:00 PMEdinburgh$721One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 AM10h40Belfast8:00 PMEdinburgh$731One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Belfast to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Belfast to Edinburgh run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 (€59) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 10:20. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 7h 10m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $19 (€16)
Distance 143 miles (231 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€59) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 10m |
First bus 6:30 AM |
Last bus 10:20 AM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $19 (€16)
Belfast to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Live departures
Belfast to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Edinburgh buses for tomorrow, Sunday, October 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:20 AM Belfast | 10h40 | 8:00 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:20 AM Belfast | 10h40 | 9:00 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Belfast to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Bus providers: National Express from Belfast to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Belfast to Edinburgh with National Express for as low as $19 (€16). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
7h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$70 (€59)
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
FAQs: Bus from Belfast to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Belfast to Edinburgh can start from as little as $70 (€59) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belfast to Edinburgh is $72 (€60) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Belfast to Edinburgh is 7h 10m to travel the 143 miles (231 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Belfast to Edinburgh leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Belfast to Edinburgh leaves at 10:20 AM.
There are 1 buses a day from Belfast to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Belfast to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Belfast and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Edinburgh including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Belfast to Edinburgh
Most Belfast to Edinburgh buses use the Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Belfast
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington StreetUpper Queen Street, Belfast BT1 6PU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street from Belfast city centre
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street is 1 km from Belfast city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6D, 6E, 12, 511 · 7m · every ~36 min
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street bus station facilities and services
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street. ATMs are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Accessibility features not detailed.
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Belfast arrive at?
Buses from Belfast to Edinburgh arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Edinburgh, Bus Station is from Edinburgh city centre.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $3 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Belfast
More options for your journey from Belfast to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Belfast
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